Classic Thailand featuring Phuket

Start with exciting Bangkok, continue to charming Chiang Mai and finish in the fabled resort of Phuket. This perfect combination allows you to truly immerse yourself in this country of contrasts.

This 10-day trip serves as a great introduction to Thailand, taking you to bustling Bangkok, relaxed and culture-rich Chiang Mai, and the sprawling beaches of Phuket.

Bangkok, the Thai capital since 1782, is a national treasure with its Buddhist temples, palaces, floating markets on small canals, legendary nightlife, and abundant shopping opportunities. It offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpses of Thailand's rich traditions and gentle culture amid the bustle of a diverse metropolis.

This dynamic city has successfully combined the ancient and modern worlds. Bangkok, the Thai capital since 1782, is a national treasure with its Buddhist temples, palaces, floating markets on small canals, legendary nightlife and abundant shopping opportunities. It offers visitors the opportunity to experience fascinating glimpses of Thailand's gentle culture amid the bustle of a great and diverse metropolis.

Your stay begins with a visit to the renowned Grand Palace, the former residence of Thai kings. In this complex, you will be able to relive the splendour and pageantry of the past. A highlight will be the impressive Emerald Buddha. Continue to Wat Po, one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok where the large Reclining Buddha is housed. In the evening, you will take a cruise on the Chao Phraya River which cuts through the city, taking in spectacular sights on both banks including the Temple of Dawn, and the Grand Palace. Thai delicacies will be served during the cruise.

The following morning, head outside the city to Damnoen Saduak to see the colourful floating market where the customers travel in their boats to the merchants who are lined up on the sides of the canals selling their wares. Also visit the tallest Buddha pagoda in the world, the Phra Pathom Chedi. After lunch at the nearby Rose Garden, you will be entertained by a Thai cultural show including music, singing and the martial arts. Return later back to Bangkok.

Chiang Mai is the principal city in the north surrounded by the highest mountains in the country. The atmosphere here is much more serene than Bangkok. With a wall surrounding the old part of the city and over 300 ancient temples, "The Rose of the North" is famous for its history, culture, spirituality, lush hills, shopping, and fascinating tribal people.

During your stay, visit the Wat Chiang Man Temple, the oldest in the city built in the 13th Century with its two statues of Buddha, one of which is made of crystal. You'll also visit the Wat Phra Singh, built in Northern Thai classical style with its exquisite wood carvings and the Wat Chedi Luang with its Lama style chedi (a conical shaped stupa). The last temple to be visited is the Wat Suan Dok built in the 14th Century and one of the most famous for Monk studies. After this, head to the expansive Varoros Market, where you can buy almost anything. The afternoon is free to explore further, shop etc.

The next morning, travel outside the city to Doi Suthep, a temple built on top of a mountain with amazing views of the surrounding countryside and even Chiang Mai in the distance. After this, visit a hill tribe village and meet the Hmong tribe close up with their colourful outfits and a special way of life.

Fly the next day to the south of Thailand to the beach resort of Phuket, your home for the next three nights. Phuket is blessed with magnificent coves and bays, powdery white beaches, hospitable people and lushly forested mountains - everything necessary for a memorable, relaxing stay. The next morning, you will enjoy a boat ride to PhiPhi Island where the movie “The Beach” was filmed. You are free to explore the charms and serene beauty of the island. Later, you will have the opportunity to travel on a small boat to a secluded beach to swim, snorkel or just relax. After lunch here, enjoy free time before it’s time to travel back to Phuket.

The following day is totally at leisure to explore, swim, relax or go shopping as you wish.

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport to Bangkok Hotel With Guide

Duration

90 Minutes

Nouvo City Hotel

Nouvo City Hotel is a modern boutique hotel located near Khao San Road, within walking distance of many of Bangkok's attractions. Facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool, steam room, spa, pool bar and the Sara Restaurant.

Nouvo City Hotel

Nouvo City Hotel is a modern boutique hotel located near Khao San Road, within walking distance of many of Bangkok's attractions. Facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool, steam room, spa, pool bar and the Sara Restaurant.

Nouvo City Hotel is a modern boutique hotel located near Khao San Road, within walking distance of many of Bangkok's attractions. Facilities include a fitness centre, swimming pool, steam room, spa, pool bar and the Sara Restaurant.

Facilities

Fitness Centre

Meeting/ Banquet facilities

Pool bar

Restaurant

Spa

Steam Room

Swimming Pool

Photo gallery

Half Day Grand Palace and Temple Tour Private

Today you will visit the famous Grand Palace, Chakri Maha Prasad, one of the most beautiful examples of an ancient Thai court. The palace was the former residence of the Thai kings. There are several things here to admire, including the Reception Hall, the Coronation Hall, the Funeral Hall, and the beautiful Temple of the Emerald Buddha, also known as "Wat Phra Kaew". You can easily visualize the splendour and pageantry of the past.

Later, you will proceed to Wat Po, home of the enormous Reclining Buddha and one of the oldest and largest temples in Bangkok.

Please note that modest dress is expected on this tour.

Duration

4 Hours

Manohra Dinner Cruise

You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the pier to join the Manohra Rice Barge Dinner Cruise, a romantic and unique culture experience. The cruise sets sail at 7:30PM. Cruising along the Chao Phraya River on this elegant, restored wooden rice barge, you will be introduced to Bangkok by night. It's a spectacular and memorable experience as Thai culinary delicacies are served as you glide down The River of Kings. Manohra can accommodate a maximum of 70 guest diners and en route you will pass the famous Wat Arun (The Temple of Dawn), the magnificent Grand Palace, The Royal Barge Boathouse, and numerous other temples and fascinating landmarks. A delicious Thai set dinner (Gold Menu) is included and features delicacies such as Thai dumplings, prawn skewers, spicy soups, regional curries, stir fries, fresh seafood, and a traditional Thai dessert. The cruise concludes at 10:30PM and you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Duration

3 Hours

Day3

Half Day Klongs (Canals) Tour Private

Today, you will travel on the picturesque Chao Phraya River, also known as the "River of the Kings", and through the klongs (canals) of Thonburi on the west side of the river from Bangkok. There will be a chance to observe and photograph the serene family homes and temples along the waterways ,which gave the city the nickname of "Venice of the East." You will also visit a major riverside landmark, the Temple of Dawn, or Wat Arun, which has a pagoda that soars 79 m into the sky.

Duration

4 Hours

Day4

Bangkok Hotel to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport With Guide

Duration

90 Minutes

Chiang Mai Airport to Chiang Mai Hotel

Duration

10 Minutes

X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel

The X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel emphasizes style and simplicity, located in the hip and happening neighbourhood of Nimman. With exceptional cafes and great shopping, this is an ideal base from which to explore Chiang Mai, and the hotel is within an easy walk of the old city. Special features include an exterior vertical garden and saltwater pool.

X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel

The X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel emphasizes style and simplicity, located in the hip and happening neighbourhood of Nimman. With exceptional cafes and great shopping, this is an ideal base from which to explore Chiang Mai, and the hotel is within an easy walk ...

The X2 Vibe Chiang Mai Decem Hotel emphasizes style and simplicity, located in the hip and happening neighbourhood of Nimman. With exceptional cafes and great shopping, this is an ideal base from which to explore Chiang Mai, and the hotel is within an easy walk of the old city. Special features include an exterior vertical garden and saltwater pool.

Facilities

24 Hour Reception

Bar/Lounge

Business Centre

Dry Cleaning

Garden

Guest Laundry

Library

Saltwater Pool

Tour Desk

Photo gallery

Half Day Doi Suthep and Meo Tour

This tour features a scenic drive through the most historic areas of Chiang Mai, including a pass through the old city walls, city gates and moat. The drive continues into Chiang Mai's tourist attraction area, past the local market, foreign consulates, government buildings and 'Tapae Gate' before continuing to the acclaimed temple Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, home to a holy relic of the Lord Buddha and considered by many to be the most sacred Wat in northern Thailand. Tucked away in the mountains at an elevation of 1,056 meters (3520 feet), the temple is reached using a Naga (a 7- headed dragon head serpent) railing rising along both sides. The temple compound, accessed via 300 stairs, offers a beautiful view of Chiang Mai city and the surrounding countryside. Continue on to visit the primitive Meo Pui village, a local community known for its unique culture and colourful costumes.

Chang Phuak Gate Market Evening Street Food Tour Private

Set out from your hotel this evening to explore one of Chiang Mai's best street food markets, with small stalls serving a wide range of dishes, many of which adhere to the principles of authentic Thai and Northern Thai cooking. With the benefit of your guide's expertise, meet local vendors and taste delicious grilled meats, seafood, curries, soups, noodles and rice dishes. This market is popular with locals and is a great place to wander, relax and soak up the nighttime atmosphere of Chiang Mai. Continue onwards to the Night Market or Night Bazaar and test your bargaining skills! Return to your hotel around 9pm.

Duration

3 Hours

Day7

Chiang Mai Hotel to Chiang Mai Airport

Duration

10 Minutes

Phuket Airport to Phuket Hotel

Duration

45 Minutes

Deevana Patong Resort and Spa

The Deevana Patong Resort and Spa is renowned for its amazing value and its ideal location in Patong. Situated across the street from Bangla road, the Deevana is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still close to the action, restaurants and nightlife of Patong. The hotel is about a 10 minute walk to the beach and offers two pools plus a swim-up bar that serves delicious cocktails at happy hour! The rooms are spacious and clean. This hotel is ideal for couples and honeymooners or friends looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.

Deevana Patong Resort and Spa

The Deevana Patong Resort and Spa is renowned for its amazing value and its ideal location in Patong. Situated across the street from Bangla road, the Deevana is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still close to the action, restaurants ...

The Deevana Patong Resort and Spa is renowned for its amazing value and its ideal location in Patong. Situated across the street from Bangla road, the Deevana is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city but still close to the action, restaurants and nightlife of Patong. The hotel is about a 10 minute walk to the beach and offers two pools plus a swim-up bar that serves delicious cocktails at happy hour! The rooms are spacious and clean. This hotel is ideal for couples and honeymooners or friends looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.

Photo gallery

Day at Leisure

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.

Day9

Day at Leisure

Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.

Day10

Phuket Hotel to Phuket Airport

Duration

45 Minutes

Other Information

DEPARTURES:

Daily

PRICE INCLUDES:

9 nights' accommodation as indicated or similar

Airport transfers

Touring as per itinerary

Meals as specified

PRICE EXCLUDES:

Travel insurance

Gratuities unless otherwise stated

Items of a personal nature

Optional excursions

Beverages unless otherwise stated

Visa fees if applicable

Park fees unless stated

All international and domestic airfares and airfare taxes unless specified

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

This itinerary requires flights between Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and Chiang Mai and Phuket (additional cost).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.